Informative Articles

This article is a bit of a continuation from our post last month. In that post, we focused on the basics of opening/closing the doors of a shipping container. In this post, we will discuss the two main reasons the doors of your shipping container may be difficult to close (after they’ve been opened).

Uneven Surface

When a shipping container is delivered, it’s usually delivered with the doors closed. If the container is dropped on a surface that is uneven, it can create some big-time challenges when opening/closing the doors. While it may be a bit difficult, you can usually get the doors opened. However, it may be virtually impossible to get them closed again.

The reason is because a container can twist or rack when it’s placed on an uneven surface. It is always best to place your shipping container on as level and hard-packed a surface as possible (like concrete, asphalt or gravel). However, if you are unable to drop the container on a hard-packed surface, the container can be placed on the bare ground as well.

When placing a shipping container on a grass/dirt surface, we recommend leveling that area as best as possible. However, sometimes you may not be able to do so. That’s okay. Just keep in mind, that you may need to level the container (by shimming up a corner or two once it’s been dropped).

Before opening the doors of the container, we suggest that you perform a visual inspection of the doors. This is usually a pretty good indicator if the container is not level or “racked”. Focus on the black rubber gasket/seal that runs around the perimeter of each door. That gasket/seal should line up straight across the top. If one side is higher than the other, the container is most likely unlevel. If you try to open the doors now, it may be very difficult to close them again.

To shim up a corner(s) of your shipping container, we recommend using pressure treated lumber. You may only need to shim up a corner(s) an inch or two. It may take some a bit of experimenting, to determine how much you need to shim up your container. Once you’ve added the shims, check the door gasket across the top of the doors. If the gasket is lined up, you’ve probably done a good job leveling the container. At this point, the doors of your shipping container should open/close without a problem.

Uneven Distribution of Product/Items

Once you’ve determined that your shipping container is level, it’s time to start loading it. It’s important to pay attention to how you distribute the load throughout the container. You may not experience any issues going forward (no matter how you load your product/items into the shipping container). However, if you notice that the doors are difficult to open/close after you’ve loaded the container, you may need to check how the product is distributed. Moving some items around may be necessary to alleviate any issues with opening/closing the doors.

If your product/items have been distributed evenly and you are still having trouble with the doors, you may want to check the corners of your container. If the shipping container has been placed on grass/dirt/asphalt, it’s possible that a corner(s) may have started to sink a bit.

This is a common problem as you start to add weight to your container. One or two of the corners may sink down below the level of the surface. If this happens, you’ll just need to shim up those corners until the container is level again. This should make the doors easy to open/close again.

It’s always best to make sure your container is placed on as level and hard-packed a surface as possible. If your shipping container is going on grass/dirt/asphalt, make sure you have some pressure treated lumber on hand. You may need to do some leveling. It’s also best to distribute the product as evenly as possible throughout the container.

These tips will ensure that your shipping container is always level. We hope that this information is helpful. If you have any questions or are interested in purchasing a container or renting a container, please contact us at (678) 902-9525 or complete an online quote request.

Whether you are interested in buying or renting a shipping container, you must know the proper way to open & close the doors. It might seem intuitive but there can be a few snags along the way if not performed properly.

It is important to note that the container must be on as level a surface as possible. If it’s not a level surface, you may be required to shim up a corner(s), to ensure the container is level.

Once the container is level, proceed with opening the right-hand door first.

(1) Once you release the handle hinges upwards you simply pull the handle up and then rotate them out and towards you or away from you (depending on the container).

(2) This rotates the long silver poles called locking rods that are attached to both handles and the cam keepers.

(3) The cam keepers lock the top and bottom of the door of the container and seal it shut. Rotating the handles will disengage the keepers and break the seal. Once they are unlocked you simply pull the door open and repeat on the opposite side.

It is a pretty simple process that gets easier the more you do it. However, there can be some problems along the way that you might want to double check first. You always want to check for an uneven surface, rusted door seals, torn or damaged gaskets (rubber seals around the doors), and even distribution of items on the inside.

We are always happy to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact Georgia Storage Containers at (678) 829-5902.

Winter is here, now is the time to pack away all your summer items and clear out any clutter. Time to put away the jet skis, wetsuits, surfboards, and swimsuits and whip out the skis, snowboards, snowmobiles, holiday decorations, and warm winter gear. Instead of taking up valuable space, store your items in a shipping container. Whether it be protecting your outdoor equipment from dings and dents of hale, or keeping electronics and important paperwork safe from the harsher cold, we have a container solution for you to protect your most prized possessions. Avoid damage caused by frigid/harsh temperatures and protect your items from unpredictable weather conditions. Since many people store seasonal items, it is important to protect those belongings from being damaged. Georgia Storage Containers’ containers are durable, wind and watertight and rodent free, so you do not have to be concerned with your items being damaged. Since containers are made of Corten steel, their inherent strength will handle the weight of heavy snow. Along with protecting your items from the elements, shipping containers will ensure the security of your items from theft. Shipping containers are the perfect year round solution for your storage needs. If you are feeling unsure about purchasing a container, we have long-term and short-term rental options available.

Now that your child is off to college and the nest is empty, it is time to clear out some clutter. Shipping container are a great way to store important items that will not be used on a daily or even monthly basis. Maybe you plan on redesigning your child’s old room, instead of hauling everything to a storage facility, why not just have extra storage at your home! Having a shipping container at your home is convenient because it can be loaded at your own leisurely pace. It will not only save you time but it will also save you money as well.

Shipping containers are perfect for larger outdoor summer equipment such as lawn mowers and motorcycles, as well as winter winter equipment such as snowmobiles, snow blowers, and firewood that you need easy access to. Shipping containers are an affordable solution and can be delivered quickly to your location and relocated if necessary.

Common Uses for Storage During Winter

Summer clothing

Outdoor machinery such as a lawn mower

Summer recreational equipment such as jet skis, surfboards, and wakeboards

Motorcycles and ATVs

Storing seasonal items is an easy way to save money and space in your home. Let Georgia Storage Containers help you find the right storage solution for your individual needs. Take advantage of the extra times spent indoors this cold season and tackle larger organizing projects. Time to clear the clutter and ring in the new year with clean and organized space.

The Mercedes-Benz stadium is currently under construction and will be the future home of the Atlanta Falcons. They are confident that the $1.5 billion stadium will open by June 1, 2017. It will be the only stadium in the United States to be LEED certified at the platinum level.

However, there have been many setbacks that have threatened the timetable of the stadium opening on time. The complexity of the steel structure for the roof has caused some problems for the construction team. Pieces of the large, eight-piece retractable roof are continuing to go up with careful mechanization to ensure it opens flawlessly. Not to mention, crews struggled to stay on pace pouring the concrete for the superstructure of the stadium. The main delay is a result of the design process for the steel structure that will support the stadium’s complex retractable roof.

As with many large-scale construction projects, setbacks due to poor weather conditions, changes to the structure, availability of materials, and other unforeseen delays are common occurrences. If your construction team is critically falling behind in a big project, make the job a little easier with shipping containers. Unforeseen delays could put a kink in your timeline. Be prepared and organized to help your team get back on track.

Ensure that your materials and equipment are secure and increase productivity and efficiency at your job site. Keeping your equipment and tools on-site in a container makes those items easily accessible. Georgia Storage Containers offers storage containers in varying sizes, ranging from 10 ft to 53 ft in length. Keep your tools and equipment safe from the elements and thieves. Make sure your site is complying with government regulations for safety, providing an organized and clean environment for workers.

Georgia Storage Containers (through our parent company, Container Technology) also offers mobile offices and can modify a container to meet your needs. Having an office container on-site will promote productivity and save your workers travel time. Instead of traveling to other locations, meetings can be held on-site to maximize efficiency.

On-site Storage Applications:

Secure equipment, materials, and tools

Store excess inventory

Protect items from weather and unwanted guests

Stay organized and keep workers safe

Maximize efficiency to complete jobs on time

Stay on budget

Eliminate the need to travel to off-site facilities

Contact Georgia Storage Containers today for all your job site and construction storage needs. Give us a call today to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members. Our local Atlanta number is (678) 902-9525. You can also complete an online quote request and one of us will get back to you with the information you requested.

Have you finally decided to pull the trigger and buy that 1966 Mustang or that 1969 Dodge Charger that you’ve had your eye on? Your dreams are finally becoming a reality but where are you going to store your new baby? You want your shiny new toy to be safe, secure, and protected from unpredictable weather conditions. Maybe you need extra space to store your seasonal equipment such as boats, jet skis, bikes, snowmobiles, etc. Or maybe you just need some extra storage space and your garage isn’t cutting it anymore. Time for a container garage. Shipping containers are a great solution because they are affordable, durable, and easy to install, use, and maintain.

Containers can handle the weight. A 20ft shipping container is about the size of a one car garage and can store about 24 tons! They are perfect to store all your seasonal toys like trailers, boats, snowmobiles, and tractors.

Containers are affordable. Shipping containers definitely cost less than building a whole new garage.

Containers are easy to set up. Containers are delivered on a tilt-bed truck to a location of your choosing and ready for use immediately. Make sure to pick a location where the ground is firm/level.

Containers are easy to maintain. There is no real maintenance required. They are made to withstand the elements. However, if you are going with a used container, it’s not a bad idea to put a fresh coat of paint on the exterior. Ask us about our painting services.

Containers are simple to use. At Georgia Storage Containers, all of our rental storage containers come standard with an “easy open” door handle on the cargo doors. If you would prefer to purchase a container, we can easily install a handle for you.

Containers are safe and secure. At Georgia Storage Containers, we want to make sure your possessions are safe and secure. All of our rental storage containers come with a high-security lock box. They are safe, secure and watertight to ensure that your valuables are protected. We can also add a lock box on any container you purchase as well.

At Georgia Storage Containers, Inc., we are proud to offer a wide variety of shipping containers, “easy-access” modular rentals, and storage trailers for rent or purchase. Whatever your needs, we have the perfect solution for you. Our units are available for rent or sale in lengths from 10 ft to 53 ft. Since 1988, we have been a leader in the storage container industry. We understand the unique storage requirements of our customers and want to help find the right storage solution for you. If you would like to speak with us one on one, a container specialist is standing by to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to call us today at (678) 829-5902 or complete an online quote request.

Having a mobile office can be beneficial in the long run, especially for people in remote areas whose job locations are changing constantly. Mobile offices are also great for people who are self-employed or people who have a small business. Work will be more manageable, organized, and flexible. Mobile offices are very versatile, easy to set up, and secure. Container modifications are available, making it easy to build a custom office to your exact specification. Having a mobile office adds convenience to your life by being able to work from the same environment, with the same set-up, no matter where you are. Not to mention, a mobile office is a safe place to transport all your files and equipment from one place to another, when relocating is necessary. Whether you are looking for a temporary workplace or looking for a more permanent solution, converting a shipping container into a mobile office will offer many more advantages over renting or building a conventional office space.

Benefits of Shipping Containers as Mobile Offices

Environment – Shipping containers create quiet and comfortable work spaces. Unlike having a designated workspace inside your home where focusing can be difficult due to distractions, having a completely private office allows you to still be close by, but the separate space will help you work in peace. By having a mobile office, tasks can get done properly and on time, focusing on your business will be made easier without interruptions and noises.

Comfort – A mobile container office can be equipped with basic necessities to run the general operations of an office such as electricity, phone lines, and internet. Shipping containers are naturally spacious and come in various sizes to accommodate your specific needs.

Easy Transport of Container Offices
A mobile office space made from a modified shipping container can be easily transported from location to location, even if the areas you work in are out-of-the-way. Shipping containers are made for use in normal transportation channels, and all that’s needed for set-up is a flat surface. This means that moving your office is often easier than moving other equipment to and from the site.

Shipping containers are naturally durable and weather resistant; they are designed to withstand lengthy and frequent transports. This means that there is no need to worry about damage to the structure of the office with routine transport. And as long as you properly secure your gear, the container can handle carrying plenty of weight.

Security in Mobile Office Trailers

With any office, the safety of your equipment and your clients’ information is of key importance. Mobile shipping container offices can be more secure than traditional offices, thanks to heavy gauge steel exteriors.

Shipping containers also keep the office physically secure. Because they are made of durable steel, they are effective at keeping out many common pests, such as rodents. In addition, they are wind and water resistant, meaning that you don’t need to worry about water damage or instability during a storm.

Creating a mobile office out of a shipping container has never been easier. Reduce your costs of renting expensive offices in commercial buildings and save travel time by locating your office on your own property. Let Georgia Storage Containers help you find the right solution for your business needs. Contact us today at (678) 829-5902 to discuss your options in greater detail. Speak with our team of container experts to get a more in-depth mobile office quote or to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to complete an online quote form as well.

Another school year is upon us. Many children and young adults are heading back to school this month. Teachers and administrators are preparing lesson plans to further the education of their students. Many schools are either under construction or trying to complete projects before the new school year. Summertime is ideal to complete renovations or start new construction projects, however as the school year quickly approaches, many schools are in a race against time to get the projects complete. In the event a school does not complete construction in time, a temporary on-site storage solution will be necessary.

Storage containers are ideal for short-term and long-term projects because of their mobility and flexibility. Storage containers provide a safe and secure place for teachers and administrators to store teaching supplies, computers, equipment, desks, and other materials. No need to haul everything to another facility and then have to haul it all back after a few months. On-site storage is convenient and hassle free, teachers and administrators can move items back into their classroom at the their own pace. Portable storage provides an alternative for teachers and administrators to safely store valuable supplies. Construction might force some areas of the school to be closed, which means indoor storage facilities may be temporarily converted into classrooms.

Storage containers are great for storage of items that might not get used on a daily basis, such as PE equipment, art supplies, science experiments, theater costumes and props, and other miscellaneous items. There is always a need to store equipment that is too large to store inside, such as extra chairs and tables, seasonal sports equipment, and even janitorial supplies. Storage containers are the perfect storage solution for a school environment because they are practical, secure, durable, and affordable.

School Applications:

Equipment Storage Shed – Containers can be placed near the athletic field, gym, or locker rooms for easy accessibility, convenience, and safety. Storage containers are customizable and can even be painted in your school colors. Your equipment will also be safe, secure, and out of harm’s way. Containers can also be converted into locker rooms or computer labs with some modifications done. Storage containers are great if you are on a tight budget but space is limited or runs out.

General Storage – Great for storing bulk supplies such a paper, paper towels, toilet paper, books, paint, arts and craft supplies, records, files, or other important documents. Unused furniture can also be stored safely and out of the way.

Classroom Overflow – Schools that have been closed are re-opening because of the overflow of children entering the school system. Overcrowded classrooms are becoming a trend that affects both the students and teachers negatively. Students do not get the one-on-one direction, teachers are stressed, and no personal connection is made between the student and teacher. By creating classrooms out of storage containers, you can reduce the number of students in each classroom and create a more productive environment. Students can actually get the adequate resources they need to succeed. Students can learn in a comfortable environment without have to be crammed in and ignored. A modified storage container is an affordable solution for schools looking for more space or to expand.

At Georgia Storage Containers, Inc., we work with our customers to help them find the perfect storage solution. With over 75 years of experience in the storage industry, we can meet almost any need. Do you need extra space? Give us a call today at (678) 829-5902 to speak with one of our knowledgeable sales representative or get an online quote now.

Create a rotating schedule- This does not have to be a strict schedule. You can add or take out items at your leisurely pace and make a schedule that’s convenient for you. It is a good idea to create a schedule where seasonal items are being put into and taken out of the container. For example, the month of June would be a great month to make the switch, store the winter equipment and take out the summer stuff.

Reclaim you space- Take back the space in your garage. Nobody wants to park their car outside. Your car is vulnerable to theft, bad weather conditions, and even at risk for being covered in bird poop or other grime. Clear out the garage and put all your seasonal items into a storage container.

Protect your things- When items are left outside they will become damaged quickly because of unpredictable weather conditions. For example, patio furniture left out in the rain will lose the aesthetic appeal and become all mildewy. Storing seasonal items in a container will ensure protection of items that you only use for a couple of months throughout the year.

Spring cleaning made simple- When the rain just won’t go away and you are spending more time in your home, clutter begins to accumulate. Seasonal clothes and other belongings are taking over your closets and drawers. Clear out the unused clutter into storage container. The transition from winter to spring is a great time to organize your home. Time for spring cleaning!

Store Seasonal items- Do you still have that fake Christmas tree up from 6 months ago? Or maybe you still have your lights up? There is no need to have decorations sitting around for holidays that have already passed by. Time to get the holiday stuff out of the house and into a storage container. Put away seasonal sports equipment such as skis, snowboards, kayaks, jet skis, and other large equipment as well. A storage container will guarantee safekeeping of seasonal equipment when they are not being used.

Georgia Storage Containers can help you clear up the clutter taking over your life. Do you see clutter building up in your home? Is your car parked outside because your garage is too full? GSC can help determine which container options are best for your seasonal storage plan. Give us a call at (678) 829-5902 and speak with one of our knowledgeable representatives or complete an online quote.

When a customer needs something you don’t offer, you can send them down the road. Or, you can find a way to fill the need. Rick Nuckols got started in the portable storage industry by choosing option number two.

“Right after I left the Coast Guard, I was in the construction industry,” he says. “I was working in the field as an ironworker, and also as an estimator. And somebody came into the facility and wanted some containers repaired and stored. So, I put together a small company to do that.”

This was around 1976, and Rick’s small company became Old Dominion Container Repair. He served as president until 1988.

“In 1988, I founded Container Technology Inc. and signed a contract with GE/Genstar to handle all their sales for North and South America,” Rick says. In 1991, Genstar purchased Itel Containers, becoming the largest leasing company in the world.

“When they purchased Itel, one of the divisions Itel had was Instant Space. They came to me and said they’d buy me out of my contract, and hired me as director of Instant Space for the U.S.,” says Rick.

Rick set up an office in Atlanta. However, Instant Space relocated to the San Francisco bay area in 1994. “I took that opportunity to leave the corporate environment and get back into what I truly enjoy, which is being an entrepreneur.”

At the time, Rick had a business partner, Wayne Lawson. They asked Amy Gilbert from Instant Space to join their new venture. The three of them re-built Container Technology from the ground up.

“We had 20-some containers and got back into the storage and leasing business,” says Rick. “We grew the business over a very short period. We had 1,200 containers by 1997. It was a time in the industry when people were just starting to figure out all the applications they could use containers for.”

William Scotsman approached Rick about buying his storage fleet.

“It was an asset sale, not selling the company,” he says. “Our noncompete was only for the storage side, so we continued doing sales around the country, and also modifications. In 2001, we started another dry storage division, so we were back to sales, modifications, refrigeration, and dry storage.”

As Container Technology continued to grow, it gained more suitors.

“In 2007, we had two national companies contact us about buying out our dry-storage fleet,” Rick says. “We had to decide whether to keep it and continue to grow or focus on other areas. The fleet was over 1,000 containers. We sold the fleet. Not a lot of companies have sold their storage fleet twice.”

Rick and his team continued doing sales, modifications, and refrigeration. But in 2012, the terms of the fleet-sale contract let them get back into dry storage.

Container Technology has continued to grow. “I guess it’s a combination of timing, being blessed, and making good decisions,” says Rick. “And our philosophy is always get the right people that are a good fit for what we’re trying to do.

Rick says that integrity, intelligence, and loyalty are the keys to finding the right players.

“I used to be a micromanager, and I’m someone who’s always had high expectations for myself and anybody who works with me,” he says. “But I always try to be fair and open about what’s going on and where we’re going and how. I try to give them the tools they need to succeed. We try to create an environment where they treat it like it’s their own business. Making people feel appreciated is so important.”

Rick builds that sense of ownership by basing compensation on the success of the business overall. He also helps his employees develop their careers.

“I started as a temp receptionist in 1992 for Genstar,” says Amy. “Now, I own 40 percent of Container Technology. That tells you what kind of person Rick is. He loves to see everyone around him be successful.”

It sounds like Rick leads by example.

“Rick is somebody who gives 110 percent in every single thing he does. He’s enthusiastic and energetic – it’s contagious,” says Amy. “He loves to teach and mentor people. He likes to help people be the best they can be. He’s encouraged me over the years to do things I never thought I could do.”

Rick says he’s benefited from similar support.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without my wife of 47 years,” he says. “To have someone who believes in you, who lets you put your house up as collateral? It makes all the difference. There were lots of guys who were smarter than me in this industry. However, they didn’t have that support behind them. But Sharon knew I was an entrepreneur and she gave me her unconditional support.”

Now, Rick gets to reap the benefits of building his business and team.

“This is the best team that I’ve ever had,” he says. “I get to be at the end of my career and watch them grow the business. It’s really, really rewarding. They are my ‘business family.’ Every day I come here, I’m excited.”

Shipping containers carry cars, trucks, and other automobiles across the ocean from manufacturers to consumers – but their usefulness doesn’t have to end there. At Georgia Storage Containers, Inc. (GSC), we find that shipping containers | storage containers are the auto industry’s secret weapon.

Whether your automotive business is small or large, renting a shipping container could be the very best decision that you make for your automotive business. Shipping containers | storage containers are safe, secure, and durable – just what you need if you are storing auto parts, tires, absorbents, antifreeze, oil barrels, tools, or even entire vehicles.

Durable

Worried that your portable storage won’t hold up the rigors of the automotive industry? Have no fear– shipping containers are designed to withstand the rigors of international shipping. If your shipping container | storage container has survived the open ocean, loading and unloading at multiple ports, and the container depot before making its way to you; then it can handle anything that the automotive industry can throw at it. Every shipping container is built from cor-ten steel and has a specially treated marine-grade plywood floor.

Flexible

Shipping containers are the automotive industry’s secret weapon in large part due to their flexibility. When you rent a storage container from Georgia Storage Containers, Inc. you only have it as long as you need it. We are typically able to deliver a container in within a few days (possibly even next day) and will pick up your container when you’re done with it – no hassle and no fuss!

At GSC, shipping containers | storage containers are the superior choice because they come in a variety of lengths and conditions to suit any budget or site constraints. We have shipping containers available in lengths from 10ft to 53ft.

Secure

If you’re in the automotive industry, you know that automotive tools and parts are vulnerable to theft. Luckily for you, shipping containers are one of the most secure options on the market. Designed with function over form, every shipping container that we rent is made from 14-gauge cor-teen steel, is wind and watertight, has only one access point (the container doors themselves). For added security, GSC has a number of security accessories and locks.

About Us

At Georgia Storage Containers, we have over 25 years of experience in the container rental industry and understand your storage requirements. If you would like to speak with us one on one, a container specialist is standing by to answer any questions you may have. Find how renting a storage container can help you to expand your business right now! Feel free to call us today at (678) 829-5902 or complete an online quote request.